UNG staff person wins statewide service award

UNG staff person wins statewide service award

(Nov. 7, 2016) - As director of University of North Georgia's (UNG) Blue Ridge Campus, Sandy Ott believes that universal success begins with grassroots-communities, and because of her dedication, she has been selected for the 2016 Chancellor's Outstanding Service Excellence Award.

The Service Excellence Award was created to honor University System of Georgia (USG) employees who continually go above and beyond their responsibilities. Nominees are chosen based on their ability to adopt and apply various methods of quality service that improve and emphasize student and/or employee satisfaction.

Ott was nominated by UNG's former vice president for university affairs, Dr. Eric Skipper, because of her dedication to cultivating relationships and collaborations between UNG and the Blue Ridge community.

"The support that the Blue Ridge Campus has received from across the university and the community has been key in its success. Looking at the possibilities and identifying opportunities to serve not only our students but our community is so important," Ott said.

The campus has experienced significant growth over the last year. When the campus opened in fall 2015 there were 21 students. Over the past year the number of the students have reached over 100 and the course offerings have expanded.

"I had the opportunity to grow up in this area, and now to be a part of UNG's Blue Ridge Campus is amazing. In the past, higher education options have been limited, and now for students to have the opportunity to attend UNG at home opens up unlimited possibilities. My passion is working with students; to be able to see the impact that education has on their lives, the lives of their families and this community that I love is such a privilege."

Ott and other USG honorees received their award from USG Chancellor Hank Huckaby on Oct. 25 at Georgia College and State University.